Torch-bearer of undy ng sp r t

In the recent two-match test series, Jason Holder will be looking for a remarkable turnaround to script a different tale in ODIS

Seen by many as a future torchbearer, Jason Holder has been at the helm of affairs of West Indies cricket for quite some time. The cricketer, considered a future talent, was appointed West Indies’ ODI captain, replacing Dwayne Bravo for the five-match ODI series against South Africa, which started on January 16, 2015.

EYE ON THE FUTURE According to a WICB release, the recommendation to appoint Holder was made by the Clive Lloyd-led selection panel and approved by the board of directors. Holder’s appointment was made with an eye on the future.

At the time of the elevation to captaincy two months before the 2015 ODI World Cup, Holder had nothing but optimism. His numbers were abysmal as he had played just 21 games, taking 29 wickets with his fast bowling at an average of 28.65.

At the age of 23, Holder was the youngest to don the role of captain of the West Indies cricket team. He had made his ODI debut against Australia in February 2013. At that time, Holder was still making his mark as a fast bowler and a lower-middle order batsman.

TOUGH JOURNEY

In the first Test of West Indies tour of Sri Lanka from October 14-17, 2015, at Galle, Holder debuted as the captain of the test side. He also became the second youngest test captain of all time for the West Indies.

Since taking over as Test captain of the Caribbean side in 2015, it has been a tough journey for the all-rounder. Some cricket greats from the home country have reposed faith in him to lead the side to glory. Captain Jason Holder is also seen as remarkably level-headed and mature for his age by many.

Born in Barbados, Holder is considered as a reliable batsman and a steady medium-pacer. The young captain also received the prestigious Lord Gavron Award in 2009.

In the cricket’s longest format, Holder though has toughed it out and is finally reaping the benefits of the hard work at a personal level with solidifying performances. Jason Holder was the pick of the bowlers in the West Indies team in the ongoing second Test against India. The West Indies captain has had an amazing year with the ball picking up 33 wickets (including this match) in just 11 matches at an average of just 11.87. In this match, Jason Holder bowled beautifully and strangled the Indian batsmen with his line and length.